Paul encourages Christians "to be in subjection to the governing authorities" (Rom 13:1a). Peter backs him up when he commands believers to "submit yourselves for the Lord's sake to every human institution" (1 Pet 2:13a). Followers of Jesus are to willingly accept the dictates of human government knowing, first, that their station was given by God (Dan 2:21; John 19:11; Rom 13:1b) and, second, that personal and corporate subjection—perhaps especially in the face of mistreatment—is a powerful witness to a fallen world (1 Pet 2:11–12, 15–16).
But how far does this command extend? When does submission to human authorities become disobedience to our Highest Authority? Is there a time for civil disobedience (e.g. Ex 1:15–17; Dan 3:16–18; Acts 4:19–20) and, if so, when? Where does the Christian conscience come into play? These are just a handful of the timely questions Andrew and Josiah tackle today on the podcast.
To hear the sermon on Romans 12–15, click here. For further discussion on that sermon, click here.
